Starbucks

Speak to anyone in the US and most countries abroad and you will find that not only do they know the name of Starbucks, but they have a definite stand on them. People either love or loath the coffee conglomerate. I happen to love them. Their coffee, not so much; but the espresso drinks I can't get enough of. An Americano on a cold day puts a quick smile on my face.

This photo was taken at the Starbucks in Kusadasi, Turkey (pronounced coosh-ah-dah-see):

So this morning, as is my new Friday tradition, I popped into the Starbucks near work and waited in a long line for my beloved Americano and a raspberry-lemon muffin (yum!). There were little groups, business people, newspaper readers, laptop users and a couple of firemen. There were discussions that looked serious, chats that didn't and everything in between.

If you let go of the fact that Starbucks is a coffee empire, ignore the fact that they are a massive chain, and look past the multi-million dollar marketing team that created the place you will find that it has become the neighborhood hangout. Starbucks hosts an array of various meetings, from first dates to multi-level marketing exposure to bands discussing their set list; all without really paying any attention. That funky guy sitting next to you may just be the next big thing, all because he hung out at Starbucks to meet a producer.

Whatever your stand on the company, my homework for the weekend for you is to go sit at one for an hour. Sip a drink if you so choose (the hibiscus tea is amazing if you're not into coffee) and just observe the life that happens inside one. I'll bet it brings a little smile to your face.

Happy drinking!